Are you having trouble growing a full, luscious beard? You’re not alone. Many men struggle to grow a beard and when they do, it’s often itchy. Many areas of your face may even start to feel raw.
Itchy, growing beards are a plague to many. The itchy sensation can drive you to distraction and force you to constantly scratch your face. But is it normal to have an itchy beard, and is it a sign that it’s actually growing in?
According to experts, an itchy beard is actually a sign that your facial hair is growing in. While it’s difficult to pinpoint an exact cause for the itch, it could be down to the fact that your hairs are growing through the top layer of skin, also known as keratin.
It’s normal to feel slight discomfort while you’re having a beard growth spurt. However, if you feel a burning sensation or more intense itching, there could be a more serious issue, such as an underlying infection in the skin.
Over the years, there have been a number of home remedies for itchy beards, but some of them can end up causing more damage than good. Here are a few tips and tricks that may bring you some relief if your beard is itchy and growing.
Use Beard Oil to Soothe the Skin
Beard oil has been known to be one of the most effective treatments for an itchy beard. This is because the oils work to moisturise the skin underneath the hairs, which can soothe the irritation.
It’s important to make sure you’re using the right type of oil. Natural oils like jojoba, almond or argan oil are best as they will get deep into your skin to provide relief.
You should also be careful that your beard doesn’t become too oily. You don’t want to leave your face sticky and greasy. Use the oil sparingly and wash your beard with a gentle shampoo and conditioner every day or two.
Cleanse the Area with Warm Water
Using warm water can help to clean the area and provide some relief from the itching. Gently massage the area when you’re showering and you should feel some relief from the itch.
Make sure to avoid using too much pressure so as not to agitate the skin, and don’t scrub the area too hard with a towel as this could strip away your natural oils and make the skin even more dry and itchy.
After your shower, you can apply some beard oil or balm to soothe the area and provide extra moisture.
Stop Pulling or Scratching Your Face
The beard area can be sensitive, so it’s important to be mindful of how you treat it. Pulling or scratching your beard can cause long-term damage and will only make the itching and discomfort worse. Resist the urge to pull or scratch and your face will thank you!
Try Antihistamines to Reduce Itching
If your beard itches really badly, then it may be worth trying an over-the-counter antihistamine. These medications can help to reduce the itchiness, and the relief should last for a few hours.
It is advised to try one tablet a day and monitor how you feel. If the itching persists, then you may need to talk to your doctor about stronger medications.
Cut Back on Certain Foods
Your diet can also contribute to the discomfort you feel with an itchy beard. Foods that are high in sugar or are rich in saturated fats can make the itching worse. Reducing your intake of these foods can help to decrease the itchiness.
Cut Your Hair at the Right Length
An itchy beard can sometimes be caused by hairs that are too long. When hairs are longer, they can irritate the skin, so it’s important to get into a regular routine of trimming your beard. Aim to keep the length of your beard between one and two inches.
It’s important to use the right tools when trimming your beard. Invest in a good quality trimmer that is designed for facial hair.
Consult a Doctor for Serious Issues
If your beard is really itchy and you’re experiencing burning sensations or redness in the area, then it’s always best to seek medical advice. The issue may be more serious than just an itchy beard, so it’s best to get it checked out.
Your doctor may be able to provide you with stronger medications or a skin lotion that can help to reduce the itching. They may also be able to diagnose an underlying underlying condition that could be causing your discomfort.
Go Through the Proper Grooming Process
Finally, it’s important to go through the proper grooming process when you’re growing a beard. This means avoiding using too much shampoo, using the correct comb, using a good quality beard oil, and getting regular trims. All of these things can help to keep your beard healthy and prevent it from becoming too itchy.
Choose Products Suited to Your Skin Type
Different skin types may require different types of products. For example, if you have dry skin, then you may want to use a cream-based product or an oil-based one. Alternatively, if you have oily skin, then you may want to opt for a soap-based product or a gel-based one.
Before buying any new products, be sure to read the label and make sure they are formulated for your skin type. This can help to prevent any possible irritation and ensure that your skin is not left feeling too dry or too oily.
Exfoliate Your Skin
Exfoliating your skin regularly can help to keep it feeling fresh and reduce the itchiness you may experience whilst your beard is growing. Scrubbing away at the dirt, oil, and dead skin cells can help to unclog your pores, which can reduce the itching.
It’s important to exfoliate gently to avoid causing any damage to the skin. Stick to using a gentle facial scrub, and only exfoliate once or twice a week.
Consider Hiring a Professional
If your beard itches a lot and you’re struggling to stay on top of your facial grooming routine, then it may be worth considering hiring a professional. They can provide you with tailored advice and may be able to help to reduce the itchiness.
Professional barbers can also help to trim your beard to the right length and provide advice on the right products to use.
Embrace the Process
Growing a beard can be a difficult and sometimes uncomfortable process. It might take some time for you to get used to the way it looks and feels. But with some patience and perseverance, you can learn to embrace the process and enjoy your luscious beard.
Be Patient for Best Results
Remember, it can take time for your beard to grow and for the itchy feeling to subside. So don’t be too hard on yourself if it isn’t growing as quickly as you would like. Just be patient and keep looking after your beard, and it should start to look and feel better in no time.
